Oahu, Hawaii Wedding Venues – Palaces and Private Estates

Which little girl hasn’t dreamed of marrying her prince in a palace? ‘Iolani Palace and Queen Emma Summer Palace are two options for a royal wedding.

‘Iolani Palace
‘Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Couples can rent certain areas of the beautiful grounds for their wedding. Since the palace is considered a sacred place and a historical gem, there are restrictions and policies that need to be followed. Couples need to apply for a permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources; this process can take up to two weeks. Wedding ceremonies are held on the Palace gardens, followed by a reception in the private open-air courtyard of the historic ‘Iolani Palace Barracks. The Barracks’ “coral block structure of limestone with its crenelated parapets and towers hearkens to the architecture of medieval castles of Europe,” states the Palace website. The `Iolani Palace Galleries may be open for tours during your event so guests can view the Hawaiian crown jewels and ancient Hawaiian regalia, as well as portraits and historic photographs. Facility rental fees support Friends of the ‘Iolani Palace, an organization that helps to restore and preserve this historic treasure.

Queen Emma Summer Palace
The summer home of Queen Emma located in lush Nu’uanu Valley is a beautiful historic home and museum. There are two sites to hold weddings at Queen Emma Summer Palace: Emmalani Hale, an indoor space for a reception, and the Prince Albert Terrace, an outdoor area. Facility rental fees are presently very reasonable and based on the number of guests. The facility rental fee includes entrance to the museum for wedding guests.

Private Estates
Below are some of the more popular private estates on Oahu that are available for weddings. These sites are breathtaking, but so is the price tag on some of them. If location is an important factor, these venues will not disappoint. Additionally, these private estates offer brides the flexibility to work with wedding vendors of their choice.

Lanikuhonua, Ko ‘olina
Lanikuhonua translates to “Where heaven meets earth” in the Hawaiian language. It is a beautifully landscaped private beachfront property that belongs to the estate of James Campbell. Lanikuhonua offers two sites for weddings. It is one of the few wedding venues that boasts a near private beach since public access to the beach is very difficult. Lanikuhonua is located next to another popular wedding venue, Paradise Cove.

Dillingham Ranch, Mokuleia (North Shore)
Dillingham Ranch is a private estate that takes you back to an era of Old Hawaii. The estate, located at the base of the Waianae Mountains, boasts an equestrian center. The plantation-style home has been used in several movies such as “50 First Dates” and “Tears of the Sun.” The home is presently under renovation but is scheduled to be open for weddings in late 2009 or early 2010. Only the facility is available for rental – all tables, chairs and food have to be brought in by outside vendors.

The Paul Mitchell Estate, Lanikai – Kailua (Windward Coast)
Offering one of the best ocean views in the world, this tropical oasis is a collection of unique bungalows that blend South Pacific and Indonesian style. This high-end vacation rental is located in the exclusive residential community of Lanikai, Kailua, and includes seven bedrooms, six baths and a beautiful oceanfront garden for a wedding ceremony.

Other popular oceanfront estates that do a thriving wedding business include the Bayer Estate in Hawaii Kai, and two North Shore estates: the Loulu Palms Estate and the brand new Fanger Estate. In addition to these, there are several other beautiful oceanfront vacation rentals which are available for weddings – many of them on the Windward and Waianae Coast.

Private homes
Many Oahu weddings are held at beautiful private homes. If you’re lucky enough to have a friend who owns a home that would be ideal for a wedding venue, you’ve hit the jackpot. You’ll be able to save a bundle on facility rental fees and splurge on your dream wedding gown or your favorite photographer. A third of the weddings that I photograph are held at private oceanfront homes in Kailua, Kahala and the North Shore. Weddings at private homes can range from intimate backyard barbecues to grand affairs with a band, dance floor and custom lighting.

Exotic Hawaii Wedding

A Hawaii wedding is always a special treat for the couples and while you are planning for the wedding think of some really nice spots where you can plan your wedding. The most favorite spots for the wedding are the weddings at the beach or during the evening when the sun is setting creating a romantic ambiance for the couples. In time sit down and plan out that what you are going to do on that big occasion.

After sitting for some time in a serene atmosphere, think of what you see – do you see yourself in front of the waterfall or in the company of verdant plants and flowers? When you are sure what you wish to do exactly, then consider the locations and choose the best out of these.

If you want some drama in your wedding then there is no better place then Volcano National Park which has all the crazy things which you have ever dreamy of. It has everything from the black cooled lava flows to lava tubes and the park is filled with lively sightseeing. There are some things which you can add to the basket of the adventure.

For those of you who are seeking for a calm and peaceful environment, think about Iao valley State Park. This park is covered with beautiful jungle and water also runs down through the valley. It has a luxuriant plants and is blessed with the company of birds. So, this place is an ideal way where you can plan your big day.

An ideal way to do the wedding is by doing it in the Hawaiian style. Here the bride will arrive by canoe and the groom escorts her and takes her to a flower valley.

Wedding Cakes

Well, I saw these delightful cakes at Multiply.  These were created by Creole Cakes based in Cebu, Philippines. While she has some traditional cakes, I would have to say her fondant cakes are among the most adorable cakes I’ve ever seen.  You can Creole Cakes’ Multiply account here.

a rather refreshing cake topper.

I really adore how the fondant icing folds as if its a cloth.

Autumn love anyone?

Layers Of Perfection

Need I say more? Just check out their website at Layer Cake Shop.

Hawaii Wedding Shop

A true epitome of a bride’s one stop shop. From wedding attires to do-it-yourself centerpieces, Hawaii Wedding Shop has it all.

They have a large selection of elegant Hawaiian wedding dresses and holokus, beach wedding dresses, and matching Hawaiian wedding shirts for a very unique and special wedding day. They also manufacture the vast majority of the wedding dresses themselves, right here in Hawaii, so the designs are always fresh, innovative and contemporary while incorporating that romantic Hawaiiana.

One very satisfied client recommends Hawaii Wedding Shop at Project Wedding.

I love this vendor because it offers a fine assortment of sophisticated, yet inexpensive, bridesmaid’s dresses. We had a great time, and ended up getting her a nice white gown. Although the shop has a unique Hawaiian theme in all its gowns that I did not expect to find, I appreciated this serene characteristic in the end. I really think that many customers would also like its offerings of easygoing, stylish shirts and dresses for other occasions. Their offerings of candles and decorations were added niceties of shopping there. – BestRvwrEver from Project Wedding

Visit Hawaii Wedding Shop’s website at www.hawaiianweddingshop.com

Maui Wedding Bouquets

A bride’s bouquet speaks about the bride’s personality – offbeat, traditional or a sweet blend of both. I have here some of my favorite flower vendors in Maui,  Hawaii.

Country Bouquets Maui

One of the finest floral wholesalers in Hawaii.  Take note that you must have a coordinator or have your wedding at one of the major resorts in order to work with them, as they are a wholesaler. No sales to the general public.

Country Bouquets Maui

Visit Country Bouquets Maui’s Website

Dellables

Della Peacock, originally from San Francisco (of Ballet fame), has lived in Hawai’i for 20 years. Originally on Kauai, then Oahu, she finally settled on the beautiful island of Maui. Here, she has worked well over 200 weddings in the past 5 years, providing her unique insight and floral brilliance to the accolades of all.

Dellables

Kalama Bride Bouquet

This hot little number mixes stargazer lilies, red anthurium, red and orange mocara orchids, uluhe fern, orange tropix and variegated ti leaves with a banana bark wrap and raffia tie details.

Visit Dellables.

Reception Spotlight: Seawatch Restaurant

The Seawatch Restaurant, with its expansive grounds overlooking the Wailea Resort coastline on Maui, offers up everything under the sun – a rainbow of options for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

The Main Dining Room

This is good if you want to exclusively occupy the restaurant for wedding receptions, award ceremonies and corporate events.

The Grille Room

This room features colorful murals by the acclaimed artist, Arthur Johnson. The room also has a large screen TV, air conditioning, and comfortable lounge-style seating.  This room is great for small gatherings such as sports viewing, private parties, and an intimate breakfast shindig.

The Upper and Lower Pond

Semi-private parties are enhanced with the view of  lushly landscaped water feature and a partial view of the ocean. The sound of cascading waterfalls nearby takes the ambiance a step further thus complementing luncheons, showers, birthday parties and cocktails.

The Lower Lawn

This grassy area, bordered by a low, hedge-lined fence for privacy, has a seating capacity of up to 80 people, making it the perfect setting for a wedding reception, cocktail party, or dinner bash.

The Upper and Lower Wedding Knoll

Located on the opposite side of the bougainvillea hedge, just below the Upper Wedding Knoll. It offers full ocean views, with the islands of Molokini and Kahoolawe in the background. The lower knoll is perfect for ceremonies of 30 or more guests, and is the most wanted location.

The Malokini

Located at the top of the Wailea golf courses above the Seawatch Restaurant, this is the perfect location for Maui weddings and cocktail receptions, as the grounds of this immense, flat, grassy area were designed specifically with wedding celebrations in mind.

Get to know more about Seawatch by visiting their website.  Read the reviews Seawatch Restaurant here.

Picking Reception Site Checklist

Wedding Reception Checklist

___	Is your wedding date available? Reserve the Site
___	Sign an agreement and leave a deposit.
___	Decide on theme, style and colors.
___	Is the church and ceremony site close together?
___	How many guests are you going to invite?
___	How many guests will the space accommodate?
___	Do you have plans for families with children?
___	Are there adequate restrooms for guests?
___	Are facilities available for handicapped guests?
___	Is there a room to change?
___	Are there coat check accommodations?
___	How about a secure place to put purses or other valuables?
___	Will there be a table be available for gifts?
___	What type and number of security personnel?
___	What other facilities/accommodations special features?
___	Does the site have a time limit or curfew?
___	If you want a tent, is there one available that the site regularly uses?
___	If not, how far in advance can you set one up and are there.
___	Are there restrictions on who can do the set-up?
___	What kind of parking facilities are there?
___	What about valet parking?
___	What other options are available?

Caterer

___	Will the catering manager/executive chef help plan the menu?
___	Will the caterer help you organize the event?
___	Will a banquet manager be at the event?
___	Who organizes the events during the reception.
___	Can someone help with the decorations in the room?
___	What kind of help does the facility offer?
___	Are kitchen facilities adequate for an off-site caterer?
___	Will the caterer have to bring a portable kitchen?
___	Will there be an on-site wedding coordinator at the reception?

Food & Drink

___	What types of packages and themes are available?
___	What will be included in the menu for each price range?
___	What types of appetizers for the cocktail hour?
___	What is the price per guest for appetizers, drinks and dinner?
___	Will the guests be offered a choice of entrees?
___	Do they offer sit down service, buffet or stations?
___	What substitutes are available on the menu?
___	What about vegetarian and restricted diets?
___	Compare the cost of an open bar vs. cocktail service?
___	What type of liquor does the facility offer?
___	Are non-alcoholic beverages available?
___	Can you provide your own alcohol?
___	What is the corkage fee and is there a minimum?
___	What is the dessert table policy?
___	What is the wedding cake cutting fee?
___	How will the food be served? servers, buffet or at stations?
___	How will the waiters and waitresses be dressed?
___	How many waiters and waitresses will there be?
___	Are there discount prices for children and senior citizens?

Other Fees

___	Are there any extra rental fees or is everything included?
___	Are tables, chairs, linens and decorations included in the fee?
___	Are there overtime charges? When do they start and how much?
___	Are the tips and taxes included in the bill or separate?
___	(ask for tip recommendations)
___	Is there a minimum guarantee?
___	How should payment be made?
___	What is the deposit fee?
___	When is the balance due?
___	What is the cancellation/postponement refund policy?

Details

___	Will you be given time to decorate the reception site the day of the wedding?
___	What colors are available and what condition is the room in?
___	Are the china and flatware in good condition?
___	Do you have a choice of patterns?
___	Will there be other receptions that day?
___	Will they put a strain on joint facilities?
___	How large is the dance floor?
___	Is there enough room for dancing and for the band or dj to set up?
___	Are there any restrictions on amplified music?
___	Are there any restrictions on Smoking?
___	What are the terms of liability insurance?
___	What is the sequence of events?
___	Will there be a guest book table and a place for an attendent?
___	Make seating arrangements.
___	Order favors and gifts for guests.
___	Get a final count to the catering manager.

2010 Wedding Trends to Look Out For

More DIY Wedding Favors

Wedding favors are one expense that any couple on a tight budget can forego. For 2010, favors are geared towards DIY wedding keepsakes as a expression of gratitude and creativity.

Birdcage Veils

A 1920’s inspired fashion trend that’s utterly glamorous. These vintage-look veils combine a jeweled clip or feathered headpiece with netting that only covers the face.

Backyard Wedding

Although setting your wedding at home isn’t necessarily cheaper, it certainly feels more personal and intimate.  A backyard event not only keeps your guest at ease, but also allows you to make  more casual and less expensive choices elsewhere.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

I guess, 2010 is a year that’s an onset for more practical and bolder choices. Rather than shouldering the cost of the bridesmaid dresses, why not give your bridesmaids the color to work on.  They can just select any designer they desire as long as the dress is within the color theme. You can also forgo the one color dress motif and mix and match various colors.

Strapless Wedding Gown

Although this has  been around for some time now, a strapless dress is still here to stay for a few more years.

Bridal Shower Ideas

Mystical Bridal Shower
Hire a fortune teller or palm reader for a metaphysical shower experience. This is usually an actor who sets the stage for fun with off-the-wall predictions about the bride and guests.

High-Tech Shower
For the high tech couple, create a cyberspace-age atmosphere. Use blue light bulbs to mock the techno blue glow of computer monitors. Use floppy disks as coasters and give custom-made mouse pads personalized with a photo of the couple, their names and wedding date as party favors. forget paper invitations via snail mail; email invitations instead! Guests could give gift certificates for high-tech shopping.

Health and Fitness Shower
Is your bride a fitness fanatic? Reserve the rock-climbing wall at a local sport center or take this coed shower to a park or beach. Organize a golf, tennis, volleyball or racquetball tournament. Great for Coed showers too!

Stock the Bar Shower
Forget the pantry, how about stocking the bar. A great idea for couples who frequently host parties.

Wine Tasting Shower
Organize a wine tasting event in honor of the bride. This can be held at a winery or local cafe. Guest could bring wine and bar related gifts.

Stock the Garage
Brides need power tools too! Maybe the happy couple will be buying a fixer-upper or planning a house remodel? Is the bride or groom a car buff? How about car cleaning and maintenance supplies.

Bridal Shower Cruise
If you are lucky enough to live near water, a shower aboard a local cruise or tour vessel is a great setting for a fun event. Even better if the bride or groom is into boating.

Christmas Shower
This is perfect for winter weddings. Guest will bring a Christmas tree ornament or other Christmas related gifts.

Memories Shower
Each guest brings a memento to represent a special or funny experience shared with the bride. Another option for a coed shower is to play videos or display images of the bride and groom as children. Guest can share remembered childhood stories and events.

Garden Shower
Perfect for a June Bride into gardening (or hopes to be). Hold the event in a garden setting and have the guest bring gardening related gifts. A fun twist is for guest to come wearing a decorated sun shade hat. The best hat design wins a door prize!